ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Friday successfully tested the nuclear-capable Hatf-II ballistic missile with a range of 180 km, marking the second test of a missile system in four days as part of measures to evaluate the capabilities of its Strategic Forces.
The test of the Hatf-II or Abdali short range surfaceto-surface ballistic missile was part of the “process of validation of land-based ballistic missile systems”, the military said. It described the test as successful.
The missile can carry nuclear or conventional warheads with “high accuracy”, the military statement said.
“The weapon system with its varied manoeuvrability options provides an operational level capability to Pakistan’s Strategic Forces.”
On February 11, Pakistan tested the nuclear-capable Hatf-IX tactical missile with a range of 60 km. Analysts say the Hatf-IX missile is primarily aimed at deterring India’s Cold Start military doctrine, which envisages quick thrusts by small integrated battle groups in the event of hostilities.
’90-110 warheads in N-arsenal’
Pakistan’s atomic arsenal probably consists of between 90 to 110 nuclear war heads, a latest Congressional report has said, informing the American lawmakers that Islamabad is interested in concluding a nuclear cooperation deal with the US, which would require their approval. (PTI)
